1998 Honda Civic 1.4L Petrol · S8 TGN

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a worsening trend regarding steering geometry and engine efficiency. While the car passed the November 2025 test at 45,444 miles, this followed a significant failure just five days prior. That October failure revealed a litany of defects, including steering rack issues, lighting failures, and emission failures, indicating that the previous owner only addressed faults necessary to pass the test. The recurring play in the steering rack inner joints suggests a persistent mechanical weakness that has been intermittently managed. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 28-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 1,600 miles per year. The record shows a jump of 8,500 miles between October 2022 and October 2023, followed by roughly 3,000 miles in the following year. While low mileage typically reduces wear on the drivetrain and interior, the long intervals between uses often accelerate degradation of rubber components like gaiters and seals due to dry rot and heat cycling, which is consistent with the missing steering rack gaiter noted in the late 2025 failure. A buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the front steering assembly and exhaust system. The recurring play in the steering rack inner joints and the previous failure of the track rod end indicate the front-end suspension is nearing the end of its functional life. The high carbon monoxide readings recorded in October 2025 suggest an incomplete combustion issue or a rich fuel mixture, which requires a professional diagnostic check to ensure the engine is running efficiently. Given the age of the Honda, the buyer should also check for structural corrosion on the sills and wheel pans, as low-mileage cars often hide hidden rust if stored in damp environments.